Canted Vent Hole Geometry for Low-Drag Crack-Resistant Panels
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for forming large arrays of holes in materials for venting purposes often increase aerodynamic resistance and are susceptible to surface cracks, while also presenting design challenges.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for forming biaxial symmetric canted holes by determining a forming angle between five degrees to eighty-five degrees from perpendicular to a material surface, using a cutting system to create circular openings with varying diameters on different surfaces, which reduces aerodynamic resistance and the risk of cracks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If large arrays of holes are formed in materials for venting purposes, then venting capacity is improved, but aerodynamic resistance increases and surface cracks become more susceptible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the venting function into multiple small holes arranged in arrays, where each hole is optimized to be small in diameter. This segmentation allows the collective venting capacity to be sufficient while each individual small hole creates minimal aerodynamic resistance compared to fewer large holes
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the geometric parameters of the holes by forming them at specific angled orientations (canted holes) rather than perpendicular to the surface. This parameter change optimizes the balance between venting capacity and aerodynamic resistance by directing flow at angles that reduce drag while maintaining effective venting
2Reliability
If large arrays of holes are formed in materials for venting purposes, then venting capacity is improved, but susceptibility to surface cracks increases
Solution Approach 1:
The venting function is segmented into numerous small holes rather than fewer large holes. This segmentation reduces the stress concentration at each hole boundary, making the material less susceptible to crack initiation and propagation while maintaining adequate total venting area
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the orientation parameter of the holes by forming them at angled orientations rather than perpendicular to the surface. This angular orientation distributes stress more favorably across the material grain structure, reducing susceptibility to surface cracks while maintaining venting effectiveness
3Ease of manufacture
If conventional hole forming methods are used, then manufacturing is simplified, but design complexity increases due to aerodynamic and electromagnetic analysis requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent establishes specific parameter ranges for hole orientation (angled formations) that simultaneously simplify manufacturing by using standardized angular orientations and reduce design analysis complexity by creating predictable aerodynamic and electromagnetic characteristics that are easier to model and analyze
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2B
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AI summary
Systems and methods according to one or more embodiments are provided for forming canted holes in materials. In one example, a forming angle and a central axis for a vent through a panel is determined. A vent is formed in the panel about the central axis along the forming angle. The angled vent is formed with a circular shape at a first opening of the vent on a first surface of the panel when viewed at an angle perpendicular to the first surface of the panel. Additional systems and methods are also provided.